Industry leaders breakthrough boundaries of tech norms
Emerging Tech Roundup — September 9
The Quantious team’s top picks for timely trending news in the tech world.
This week in tech: DALL-E creates a marketplace for writers, a new COVID-19 detection method is in the works, Apple releases details around the new iPhone, Ring brings encryption to its battery-powered devices, Snap’s plan of action is leaked, the IRS shows interest in offering a e-file tax return service of its own, and Uber partners with Nuro to offer robotic deliveries for a minimum of 10 years.
Professional AI whisperers have launched a marketplace for DALL-E prompts
(The Verge, September 2)
DALL-E, an AI image generator, has a new marketplace forming around its services. Writers are now offering paid services to formulate both templated and customized prompts for submission. Buyers will likely see fees ranging from $2-$5 and can submit specific colors, aesthetics and other elements they would like to be included in the final product.
AI model from Maastricht University Claims to Detect COVID-19 in People’s Voices
(AIM, September 5)
Researchers at Maastricht University are developing an AI model that is more accurate in detecting COVID-19 than most rapid antigen tests. Users would enter their medical details and speak a series of sentences into the application, which would then be evaluated for diagnosis using Mel-spectrogram voice analysis technology. Researchers hope that the technology can help increase testing opportunities in lower-income areas.
Here’s everything Apple just announced at its iPhone 14 event
(CNBC, September 7)
Apple has released new features to be expected in its upcoming iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max. Users can expect an always-on display, enhanced flash and low-light photography, partnership with the Globalstar app, a new screen design and more. Preorders can be placed starting on Friday, September 8.
Ring finally brings end-to-end encryption to its flagship video doorbells
(The Verge, September 7)
Ring has increased the security measures on its battery-powered devices, enabling end-to-end encryption before content is uploaded to the cloud. Users can only access footage from their registered device and they are the only ones able to grant access saved videos. Even if law enforcement is requesting access, Ring will not release anything.
CEO Evan Spiegel explains Snap’s turnaround plan
(The Verge, September 7)
After making hefty layoffs and hinting at large goals ahead, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel has shared his vision in a leaked memo. Allegedly, Snap plans to increase usage of Lenses, the Maps and Spotlight areas of the app and increase AR advertising’s contribution to total ad revenue. As a part of its dedication to AR growth, the company also plans to begin selling its technology to other businesses.
IRS move toward free e-filing could end years of corporate domination
(The Washington Post, September 7)
The IRS is planning to offer an electronic tax filing service, free of charge, using funds from the Inflation Reduction Act. Current tax filing relief program Free File Alliance is soon to expire, and the IRS wants to prepare a replacement ahead of time. As of now, the IRS has only just begun exploring the cost and possibilities of what the e-filing software would look like.
Uber, Nuro strike 10-year deal for robot food delivery
(Restaurant Dive, September 8)
Uber has established a long-term partnership with Nuro to provide food delivery via robots, beginning with offered services in Texas and California. The robotic delivery service has no extra cost, and the autonomous vehicle is so small that it does not fit any passengers. Deliveries are expected to begin in the fall, and locations in which the deliveries are offered are expected to expand with additional approvals.
